Non-Toxic Dad News: July 25, 2024

I’ve got some alarming news that might make you rethink what’s in your kitchen pantry. Did you hear that McCormick, a well known spice manufacturer, was sued due to lead and other heavy metals found in their spice products? Yes, you heard that right—those beloved spices you’ve been using to flavor your meals might be contaminated with harmful substances.

The implications of this discovery are serious, especially for families striving to maintain a healthy and toxin-free environment. Lead and other heavy metals pose significant health risks, particularly to children, affecting cognitive development and overall health. Imagine the impact on your little ones. It's a risk we can't afford to take.

If you have McCormick spices in your pantry, it might be time to toss them! McCormick spices are NOT Non-Toxic. Stay vigilant and make informed choices to ensure your home remains a safe haven for you and your loved ones.

Learn more below, but first…

In our efforts to maintain a healthy and toxin-free environment, we often focus on the obvious culprits—cleaning products, plastics, and personal care items. However, recent alarming news has brought attention to a well-known spice manufacturer, McCormick Spices, which is now facing lawsuits due to the presence of lead and other heavy metals in their products.

Did you know that your bath towels could be toxic? If they’re a cotton-polyester blend, you might be rubbing microplastics onto your skin, especially right after stepping out of a hot shower. This exposure can lead to inflammation and health issues, including heart disease.

Let’s dive into a topic that’s been gaining attention: the safety of air fryers, particularly those with non-stick Teflon coatings.

Air fryers have become popular for their ability to cook food with less oil, promising a healthier alternative to traditional frying. However, many people aren’t aware of a hidden danger. The non-stick Teflon coatings used in many air fryers are made from “forever chemicals” like PTFE, PFOA, and PFOS.

The presence of heavy metals in popular spice brands like McCormick makes it more important than ever to ensure the safety of the spices you use in your kitchen. Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic can pose serious health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women. Here's a guide on determining if a spice might contain heavy metals and some tips for choosing safer alternatives.

How to Detect Heavy Metals in Spices

1. Check for Third-Party Testing:

   • Look for brands that have their products tested by independent third-party laboratories. These tests should check for the presence of heavy metals and other contaminants. Brands often display certification logos or provide test results on their websites.

2. Look for Organic Certification:

   • Organic spices are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can sometimes contain heavy metals. While organic certification doesn't guarantee the absence of heavy metals, it reduces the risk.

3. Review Recalls and Safety Warnings:

   • Stay informed about any recalls or safety warnings related to spices. The FDA and other consumer protection agencies regularly publish information about contaminated products.

4. Research Brand Reputation:

   • Some brands are known for their rigorous quality control and testing processes. Research and choose brands that have a good reputation for safety and transparency.

5. Examine Packaging and Storage:

   • Spices should be stored in airtight containers and kept in a cool, dark place. Poor packaging and storage can lead to contamination.

Safe Spice Brands to Consider

While no brand can guarantee 100% safety, some are known for their commitment to quality and rigorous testing:

• Frontier Co-op: Known for their organic spices and commitment to sustainable sourcing, Frontier Co-op conducts thorough testing for contaminants.

• Mountain Rose Herbs: This brand offers a wide range of organic spices and is known for its commitment to purity.

Tips for Reducing Heavy Metal Exposure from Spices

• Diversify Your Spice Usage: Using a variety of spices can reduce the risk of high exposure to any single contaminant.

• Use Whole Spices: Whole spices are less likely to be contaminated than ground spices. Grind them at home for maximum freshness and safety.

• Make Your Own Blends: Creating your own spice blends from whole, organic spices gives you control over the quality and safety of your spices.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of exposure to heavy metals in your spices and enjoy your meals with greater peace of mind.

Elevate your culinary creations with a homemade, non-toxic spice blend using organic whole spices. Grinding your own spices ensures maximum freshness and flavor, free from harmful contaminants. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

DIY Organic Spice Blend

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons organic whole black peppercorns

• 2 tablespoons organic whole coriander seeds

• 2 tablespoons organic cumin seeds

• 2 tablespoons organic dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon organic mustard seeds

• 1 tablespoon organic paprika (use organic paprika powder if you can't find whole dried peppers)

• 1 teaspoon organic turmeric powder

Instructions:

1. Toast the Spices:

   • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the black peppercorns, coriander, cumin, and mustard seeds separately until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes each. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.

2. Grind the Spices:

   • Allow the toasted spices to cool slightly. Grind the toasted spices into a fine powder using a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. A high-quality blender can also work if you don't have a spice grinder.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Combine the ground spices with the dried oregano, paprika, and turmeric powder in a bowl. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

4. Store the Spice Blend:

   • Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place. This blend should stay fresh for up to 6 months.

Usage Tips:

This versatile spice blend can be used to season meats, vegetables, soups, and stews. Add it to marinades, rubs, or sprinkle it directly onto your dishes for a burst of flavor.

Here are some healthy spices my family and I enjoy using

Pluck Organ Meat Blend Seasoning is a hit in the Non-Toxic Dad household, not only due to its delicious flavor but also because they have the bonus of having a high-quality beef organ blend in the mix. Organ meats are one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, and Pluck includes five grass-fed, grass-finished organs – liver, kidney, heart, spleen, and pancreas, although all you can actually taste are the delicious spice flavors. Rest assured that Pluck has 3rd party testing for heavy metals so you can know you’re adding in all the flavor, without any nasty contaminants.

As we strive for a healthier, toxin-free lifestyle, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive about the products we use every day. The recent findings about heavy metals in McCormick spices serve as a reminder that vigilance is key, even in unexpected areas like our spice rack. By choosing organic, rigorously tested brands and making our own spice blends, we can better protect ourselves and our loved ones from potential harm.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more tips and recipes to help you maintain a safe and healthy home.